YMCA Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Marks Their Grand Reopening

Palisades-Malibu YMCA Board Chair Duke Ostendoff was joined by honorary mayor Steve Guttenberg and Chamber of Commerce President Sandy Eddy for a ribbon cutting ceremony Friday morning to signify the grand re-opening of the facility and the recent installation of over 40 new exercise machines. The ceremony took place at the front entry-way of the facility at tk Via de la Paz. “I’ve been a YMCA member since the mid-90’s and I’m absolutely thrilled by the rebirth of this facility,” Eddy said in a short speech. “It’s a renaissance for the Y with all the changes they’re making. I enjoy coming here.” While the ceremony was going on outside, several people were inside utilizing the new equipment, including local tri-athlete Dr. Jody Margulies, who participates in about five sprint races a year. These races consist of a one-mile swim, 24.8-mile bike ride and a 6.2-mile run. Y-trainer Kendrick Hughes was overseeing her work-out. “We’re catering to a wider clientele with this new equipment,” Hughes said. “Sixty percent of our current membership consists of people 50 years of age or older. All of this new equipment helps to make this one of the best gyms in the Palisades. “We can now accommodate all sorts of people from those who simply want to get in shape to serious power lifters. The only thing missing is a spa area, like a steam room or sauna.” Lew Schneider, the executive producer of “Everybody Loves Raymond,” was in the middle of a workout. “I like it here because there is ‘no scene’–you can put total concentration into your workout,” he said. “The community aspect of the Y is important. I like supporting a community business.” Membership Director Lionell Zaragoza said he mailed out guest passes to the community prior to the ceremony offering a free workout. “The YMCA came to the Pacific Palisades over 40 years ago,” said Executive Director Carol Pfannkuche. “We’ve grown and changed to involve more and more residents in our healthy activities and programs. We welcome people in the community to stop by anytime.”